SHORT STINT--2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart
Tuesday, December 09, 2008
provided by
Call it Evo Lite or Mitsubishi's WRX fighter, but this car was long overdue in the Lancer lineup. Prior to this, there was a substantial gap between the 168-hp GTS and the 291-hp Evolution. A detuned Evo engine powers the Ralliart for a healthy 237 hp, and to give it a dose of technology, Mitsu opted for the dual-clutch transmission from the Evolution MR. No stick-shift is offered, and in the grand scheme of things (i.e., to sell the most cars), it's a good move, though word is some folks at Mitsubishi of America are fighting for it.
There are some other Evolution bits found in the Ralliart, such as the all-wheel-drive system, steering and hood. Unfortunately, you don't get the Brembo brakes or suspension, though the suspension does feature specific tuning and bigger brakes over the GTS. The result is a very good light-heavyweight contender to take on the Impreza GT (the former WRX).
Content Continues Below
Steering is lightning-quick, which we love from the Evolution, and the engine has good kick in the middle of the rev band before losing steam up near the top. The chassis is well sorted for commutes but is capable of handling the occasional flog. And unlike the Evo, the Ralliart keeps the full trunk because the battery and washer-fluid bottle stay under the hood.
There is a $6,000 jump from this Ralliart to the Evolution, so it's priced right and you get enough components to make this a heck of a daily driver.
© 2009 AutoWeek.com, Inc. All rights reserved.
|
|